Page One
Report from President Mark Granakis
DON’T LISTEN TO RUMORS
As you will notice my report has been moved to the front page. It will remain on the front page for future issues until the plant starts back up.
Since most of our members are no longer working in the mill, we will now be mailing the Local Union newspaper to everyone’s home in an effort to keep in communication with the membership.
Because the 979er News normally comes out every two months, it is impossible to always give you the latest up to the minute news. However, we continue to be available at the Local Union Hall to answer your questions and dispense accurate information on a daily basis. This leads to my next subject: RUMORS.
I would have thought with only about 1/10 of the membership still at work, the rumor mill would have ground down from its previous rate of one rumor per hour. Unfortunately, this does not seem to be the case.
Once again I remind you, do not believe rumors unless they’ve been confirmed by a reputable source (not the janitor or your neighbor whose brother-in-law knows someone who talked to someone whose related to someone in corporate) but a Local Union Officer or Grievance Committeeman.
It is impossible to address every rumor. While I remain optimistic that the plant will start back up in the future, it will not be as early as some rumors have predicted nor as late as others have predicted. Since no one knows when the economy will turn around, no one has the inside track on when this plant will start back up. As soon as I am informed that there is a true definite start up date for the mill, I will mail out a letter informing the membership of this good news.
I continue to have weekly discussions with the plant manager in an effort to start up the facilities as soon as practicable. However, I will not mortgage your future for a short term plant start-up and shut-down.
Driven by requests from members, we recently held meetings at the Hall to explain contract provisions regarding severance pay, the $10,000 PEB ( payment for those at least 60 years of age at retirement), and retiree health care. Because only the people involuntarily laid off in November and December are eligible for the severance benefit at this time, Grievance Committee Chairman Russ Sheffler asked the Grievance Committeemen to contact their members who had been affected by these layoffs to attend meetings to explain their rights and benefits. We will probably be scheduling similar meetings in October or November as many additional members become eligible for this severance allowance.
If you have any
questions concerning
the layoff or need up
to date information
call Dan Boone at
216-441-3373
Page 2
Report of 979-1 Unit Chair Tony Campana
Business conditions remain very poor. The next couple of months should show a little improvement. I spoke with Mr. Ida Hiroshi and he mentioned that we do have some work coming into the shop. He is very positive that the work load will improve in the near future. We have some work coming from California Steel and Burns Harbor.
There were rumors that ArcelorMittal was going to revamp the caster frames, but as of today, nothing has changed.
The company is doing its best to keep the remaining employees working without any further layoffs. I want you to know that management is also experiencing wage cutbacks and layoffs.
I hope that President Obama takes a good look at manufacturing because this is the backbone of our economy. Without manufacturing, this economy and our country will not survive.
We should be thankful that we still have a job to go to, even if it is only 32 hours per week.
Try to help out your foremen as far as getting to work on time. Work with them because I know in my heart that they too are working very hard with upper management to avoid any further layoffs.
Have a safe and happy summer and try to stay healthy. As always, remember that United We Stand and Divided We Fall.
Calendar
Tuesday, July 21, 1 p.m., Grievance Committee Meeting
Tuesday, July 21, Deadline for registering for District Golf Outing
Saturday, July 25, 3 p.m., Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament
Tuesday, August 4, 7:30 p.m., Local Union Meeting
Wednesday, August 5, 11:30 p.m., SOAR 979 Meeting
Friday, August 7, 9:15 a.m. District 1 Golf Outing, Cherokee Hills Golf Course
Saturday, August 8, District 1 Poker Run, 5823 Mink St., Pataskala
Saturday, August 15, 10:30 a.m. – 4 p.m., Veterans Car & Bike Show, Brecksville VA
Hospital, 10000 Brecksville Rd.
Tuesday, August 18, 1 p.m., Grievance Committee Meeting
Saturday, August 22, 12-5, Hot Fun in the Summertime
Tuesday, September 1, 7:30 p.m., Local Union Meeting
Wednesday, September 2, 11:30 a.m., SOAR Meeting
Wednesday, September 2, 6 a.m. – 7:30 p.m., ICD Sign-Up
Thursday, September 3, 5 – 7:30 Hard Hatted Women on the Rise
Tuesday, September 7, Labor Day, Paid Holiday under ArcelorMittal labor agreement
Sunday, September 13, AFL-CIO Diversity Summit, Pittsburgh
Tuesday, September 15, Deadline for Tino Fulimeni Scholarship Applications
Tuesday, September 15, 1 p.m., Grievance Committee Meeting
Committee Members Wanted
While many committees are contractually limited in size, a number of Local Union committees welcome more members.
If you are interested in joining the Newspaper Committee to write articles, take pictures, draw cartoons, or help with the layout or mailing, call Shirley Pasholk at 216-789-6087.
If you’d like to join the Activities Committee and help plan recreational activities for members and their families, call Mike Reape at 440-842-4093. Whether you want to help with golf tournaments, bowling tournaments, a softball team, Texas Hold ‘Em Tournaments, a poker run, or family activities – or have other ideas for Local Union activities, your help is needed.
If you’d like to help make a difference in the issues that Steelworkers are concerned about from health care to stopping unfair imports by visiting legislators, writing letters, attending rallies, and talking to your co-workers, call Bob Parker at 440-838-8638 and join the Rapid Response Committee.
The Women of Steel Committee helps involve women in the Union by raising money for the District Women of Steel Scholarship Fund, sponsoring an annual Kids’ Essay Contest and organizing educational and recreational activities. If you’d like to join, call Shirley Pasholk at 216-789-6087.
The Veterans Committee informs Local Union veterans of their rights, works with local veterans groups, and organizes activities from the dedication ceremony for the Local Union flag pole and commemorative plaque to a Car & Bike Show. To join this committee, call Ken Mohler at 440-506-2088.
Health Care Fight Needs to Be Waged on Federal and State Level
Dr. Johnathan Ross kicked off the annual SPAN (Single Payer Action Network) Ohio conference by urging everyone to remain steadfast in the fight for decent health care for all. He said he is convinced we will win – and that after we win, we will have to fight to keep it. He added that this fight needs to be waged on both the state and federal levels.
Dr. Oliver Fein, President of Physicians for a National Health Care Program, delivered the keynote address. He also stressed the importance of pushing for health care reform on both the state and federal levels.
Much of Fein’s talk described the March 5th White House Summit on Health Care. Originally neither he nor Con. Conyers, chief sponsor of HR 676, the federal Medicare for All Bill, were invited. After a flood of phone calls demanding that supporters of a single payer national plan be included and a threatened demonstration, both Conyers and Fein received last minute invitations.
The 150 participants at this conference included Senators, Congressmen, stakeholders, and community groups. They also included representation from the house parties to discuss health care solutions. Fein said 27% of these house parties discussed single payer. The majority of those that discussed single payer came out in favor of it.
In his keynote address President Obama said he’s aware of problems with cost, access, and quality. He added that despite the current financial emergency, he will continue to make health care a priority of his first year in office. He ended his speech by urging his listeners, “Let’s get to work.”
The opening session was followed by workshops. Reflecting the importance Obama attached to this summit, each workshop was chaired by a high ranking administration official. Fein said for some time no one at his workshop addressed the fundamental problem of the private health insurance industry. Before he could raise this issue, Sen. Bernie Sanders did so.
As he described the concluding session of this summit, Fein said bipartisanship was a goal with committee chairs and ranking minority members called on alternately. Unlike the Clinton health care plan, Obama is charging Congress with the responsibility of creating a health care bill and resolving the contentious issues.
Fein said the so-called public option presents a number of problems. It allows private insurance companies to game the system by selectively marketing to young, healthy individuals. Keeping multiple private insurance companies doesn’t allow the same administrative cost savings for providers as a single payer system.
Saying that everyone would benefit from a single payer system, Fein added, “We’re all under-insured. We just don’t know it until we get a serious illness.” While single payer advocates frequently speak of “Medicare for All,” Fein said the weaknesses in Medicare, including the co-pay in Medicare Part B, need to be eliminated.
Fein pointed out that a single payer system would relieve employers of unfair competition – both from domestic companies that don’t provide the same level of benefits and from foreign companies with government financed health care.
Describing national health care as the civil rights issue of the early 21st century, Fein said it’s the morally right thing to do.
SPAN Ohio continues its educational campaign on the need for universal single payer health care and its petition drive to get a statewide single payer health care system. Workshops included What is the Health Care for All Ohioans Act?, Building effective relationships with State legislators around the Health Care for All Ohioans Act, and Chapter Building: The New York PNHP Experience. Conference participants also met in regional and constituency caucuses.
Local Union 979 members Darrin Bates, Jim Ciomek, Sheila Ostrow, Bob Parker, Shirley Pasholk, Theresa Washington, and John Yonkof attended this conference.
Congratulations
Congratulations to Local Union 979 members James Heard, Al Mucciarone, Shirley Pasholk, Joe Patka, Ed Shedlock and Marge Wyderka and SOAR 979 member Bobbie Gary for buying winning tickets to the May 979 Women of Steel calendar raffle. Proceeds from this raffle help fund the District 1 Women of Steel Scholarship Fund.
Page Four
Report of Grievance Chair Russ Sheffler
I hope everyone is having a safe summer. Please don’t allow concerns over layoffs and the economy to distract you to the point that you become injured – whether at home or on the job.
As more of our members were laid off, the grievance load began to pick up. A lot of this was based on supervisor working grievances, which have been resolved. I caution those in the mill to remain diligent for supervisors or contractors performing work that could be done by our laid off brothers and sisters.
One of our members, facing possible discharge for violation of the company policy against taking equipment home, opted for a voluntary quit. It is unfortunate that someone should lose their job over a simple item that could be purchased at the local hardware store.
Many members have questioned the company’s right to search their cars. The company has the right to search vehicles and lunch boxes before you leave their property. I haven’t received any reports of anyone getting into trouble from something found during these searches. It’s unfortunate that everyone must be inconvenienced because of the actions of a few.
The grievances filed earlier this year regarding the layoff minimization plan and production bonuses are still in the system at the International level.
The complaint we filed based on contributions to the Steelworker Pension Trust for Cleveland Works railroad employees is also at the International level. The Union wants to be assured that the contribution rate is proper so that the pension benefit for railroad employees will be the same as for other ArcelorMittal employees.
The company instituted a normal 5 + 2 schedule for the employees who remain in the mill. Although I have repeatedly asked the company to allow the Committeemen to negotiate an agreed upon schedule with their division managers, to date I have been unsuccessful.
Although the company is within its rights under the management rights clause of the contract and this schedule meets the contractual definition of a normal schedule, I will continue to address them on allowing schedules that could provide our members with quality family and personal time.
Some of our senior members have taken a voluntary layoff under the layoff minimization plan. Their agreement to stay off until October 9th has given other members the opportunity to stay at work and prolong their benefits.
I will continue to approach the company to make sure that all vacations and vacancies will be filled by recalling employees to their departments.
We Bowled Them Over
Local Union 979 kegglers took four of the top spots in the Sub District 1 Bowling Tournament. With a score of 3416, the team captained by Frank Thomas took home $700 for their first place finish.
The team captained by Al Muccuiarone received $375 for finishing third. Finishing fourth and receiving $300 was the team captained by retiree Tom Clark. Jim Maskovyak captained the 8th place team, which received $125.
Page Five
Local Union Officers Elected
Throughout the Steelworker’s Union, Local Union elections were held in April. Local Union 979 conducted its election by mail ballot.
At the March Local Union meeting, the membership elected five Tellers to conduct this election. These Tellers were Jim Ciomek, Jon French, Phil (PJ) Jones, Bob Patrick, and Marge Wyderka. French chaired this committee.
After picking up the ballots from the post office on Tuesday, April 7th, the Tellers spent the day checking the 1111 ballots. The count was not finished until the following morning.
The results (winners in bold face) were:
President
Mark Granakis: 869
Dennis Kingzett: 223
Vice President
Dan Boone: 800
Joe Panza: 221
Jerry V. Powell: 72
Recording Secretary
Shirley Pasholk: 806
Jack Sabolich: 282
Financial Secretary
Henry (Hank) Solinski: unopposed
Treasurer
Jim Crupper: unopposed
Trustee
Mike Mormile: 828
Fred Torres: 646
Judy Fussell: 472
Kirk Rattray: 365
Jack Hearns, Jr.: 325
Guide
Grover Russell: unopposed
Inside Guard
Fred (Fritz) Polosky: 362
Danny Banyard: 341
John Yonkof: 300
Outside Guard
Danny Borden: 491
Don Johnson: 271
Al Bodi: 254
Chairman of the Grievance Committee:
Russ Sheffler: 555
Tony Panza: 284
Ken Mohler: 254
Zone 1 Grievance Committeeman
Ken Mohler: 48
Rick Miller: 17
Zone 2 Grievance Committeeman
TJ (Scotty) Scott: unopposed
Zone 3 Grievance Committeeman
Patrick McGlynn: 33
Chuck Steiger: 23
Ken Ayers: 16
Elijah (Eli) Hill: 7
Zone 4 Grievance Committeeman
Mike Deighton: 85
Bobby Jarrett: 63
Zone 5 Grievance Committeeman
Charlie Terkun: 107
Jack Hearns, Jr.: 39
Dave Schooner: 15
Zone 6 Grievance Committeeman
Don Whipkey: unopposed
Zone 7 Grievance Committeeman
Tony Pasquale: 105
Mike Lincks: 54
Zone 8 Grievance Committeeman
Tony Walker: unopposed
Zone 9 Grievance Committeeman
Brett Berkihiser: Unopposed
979-1 Unit Chair
Tony Campana: unopposed
979-1 Unit Secretary
Eugene Horschler: unopposed
979-1 Unit Griever
Harold Sanford: unopposed
979-3 Unit Chair
John Repasky: unopposed
979-4 Unit Chair
Bob Eady: unopposed
Congratulations
Congratulations to Local Union President Mark Granakis for being elected as a Vice President of the North Shore AFL-CIO.
Page Six
Steel Was Good to Ramsey
In 1952 Republic Steel hired Carl Ramsey. Before becoming an engine repair millwright, Ramsey worked in #1 and #2 coke plants and mobile equipment. While a member of Local Union 1098, he served as labor department shop steward for 10 – 15 years.
During his 40 years in the mill, Ramsey was never laid off more than a week or two. Describing his time in the mill, he said, “Forty years is a long time, but I enjoyed most of it. Steel was good to me. It paid good.”
As a result of work-related exposure, Ramsey qualified for the asbestos settlement. He continues to get small checks for his illness.
Ramsey said he’s been married 3 times. He and his current wife, Tommie, have been married for 38 years. She retired after 31 years as a registered nurse at Mt. Sinai Hospital. He brought 2 daughters into their marriage while she brought 2 sons. They now have 9 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.
Fishing and travel are two of Ramsey’s retirement pastimes. Taking advantage of the free fishing for senior Ohioans, he spends a lot of time going after Lake Erie white bass. He enjoys twice yearly trips to Las Vegas and is looking forward to an upcoming trip to Atlantic City.
Although Ramsey is involved with Warrensville Hts. Community affairs, his wife is more active. She volunteers to help senior citizens at City Hall. She took classes so she could volunteer at the Police Department and Police Court. She also teaches disaster relief classes. He described his role as supporting her activities.
Prescription Drug Change
Effective January 1, 2009, your prescription drug plan through Caremark provides coverage for Erectile Dysfunction (ED) Class Drugs and Weight Loss Medications with prior authorization.
Scholarships Available
The Tino Fulimeni Scholarship Fund, administered by ICD in Merrillville, Indiana, will award several $1000 scholarships to children or grandchildren of steelworkers eligible to participate in ICD programs.
Applicants must have at least a 3.0 grade point average and be a high school graduate enrolled in college beginning fall semester 2009 or spring semester 2010 or an existing college student returning fall semester 2009 or spring semester 2010.
The deadline is September 15th. For an application and complete rules, contact your Grievance Committeeman or Recording Secretary Shirley Pasholk (216-441-3040 or 216-789-6087.)
When you get your prescription, your doctor must call Caremark (800-626-3046) in order to get prior authorization before your prescription can be filled.
Congratulations
This year three of the eight Sub District 1 scholarships were won by children of Local Union 979 members. These winners are Greg Skapin’s daughter, Katherine; Ferris Welch’s daughter, Diana; and Lou Caplick’s son, Christopher.
Congratulations to these winners and their proud parents. Best wishes to the young scholars in their future studies.
Letter
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
I want you to know how much I appreciate receiving the Nine-Seventy-Niner News.
There’s nothing better on a cold, wet and windy day than to be able to read about the solidarity of the members of our Union and to keep abreast of the difficulties we all face.
You have a great newsletter with an outstanding editor. Keep up the good work – and thanks for a terrific newsletter.
Now, let’s get the Employee Free Choice Act passed.
In Solidarity,
Charlie Averill
SOAR Secretary-Treasurer
Discounts Available
A number of area golf courses have been kind enough to offer discounts or specials to laid off Local Union 979 members. To take advantage of these offers, you will need your Steelworkers Union card or a pay stub and your drivers license.
Discounts and specials vary from course to course. So, be sure to phone ahead for Tee times and specials.
The area golf courses agreeing to offer discounts to our laid off members are:
Bunker Hill: 330-725-1400
Creekwood: 440-748-3188
Dorlon Park: 440-236-8284
Emerald Woods: 440-236-8940
Hickory Nut: 440-236-8008
Pinebrook: 440-236-8689
Contest Announced
The Women of Steel Committee is sponsoring an essay/visual contest for students entering grades 1 through 12 in the fall of 2009. Entries will be divided into written (essay or poem) and visual (video or drawing) categories. Entries will also be divided into 4 grade level groupings (1- 2; 3 – 6; 7 – 9; and 10 – 12). First prize winners in each group will receive a $200 savings bond. Second place winners will receive a $100 savings bond. Third place winners will receive a $50 savings bond.
Children, step children, grandchildren, sisters, brothers, nieces, and nephews of Local Union 979 members or SOAR 979 members are eligible to participate. Entries should be about a Union member who has influenced the entrant and what being in a Union means to that person. This could be a relative, teacher, coach, or other adult role model or a historical figure.
All entries must be received at the Union Hall by Wednesday, September 30. For applications and complete rules, contact Recording Secretary Shirley Pasholk (216-441-3040 or 216-789-6087)
Call If You Have Layoff Questions
Some members are now exhausting their first 26 weeks of unemployment compensation. When this happens, ODJFS will contact you, informing you of your eligibility for an extension. As with all communications they send, it is important that you reply promptly so your benefits won’t be interrupted.
For those on layoff who still have remaining weeks of vacation, it is best to call your unemployment processing center at least one week before this vacation is scheduled. They will then inform you of how you should report this week.
Some of those who have been laid off 6 months are now seeing a reduction in SUB pay. If you have any questions about this, or feel that a mistake has been made, call Vice President Dan Boone at 216-441-3373.
If you’re considering taking a hardship loan on your 401k account, please call the Union Hall first to discuss the consequences of taking such a loan.
When the mill is ready to start back up, the company will need your current address and phone number in order to recall you. While the Local union is making every effort to keep our members informed, we can only do so if we have your current contact information. It is more important than ever that if you move, you inform both the Union and the company of your correct address.